Firm Foundation

One of the most important decisions you make in building your log cabin is the foundation selection. According to The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterACHI) the purpose of a foundation is to “transfer the load of a structure to the earth and resist loads imposed by the earth.” Several factors impact your foundation decision including climate, geography, water tables, topography, properties of the soil, local code requirements, personal preference and budget.

Regardless of the type of foundation, the majority of American log cabin foundations are built with some form of concrete, either poured, block or precast. Some types of foundations used for log cabin homes are slab, pier, crawlspace and basement. They all have advantages and disadvantages.

Concrete Slab Foundation

A flat concrete pad is installed and requires that the lot be graded prior to construction. Ungraded lots may experience drainage issues if water is not directed away from the log cabin walls. A vapor barrier between wet soil and concrete is recommended.

Advantages of Concrete Slab

Requires less labor and excavation which means quicker completion and lower cost

Prevents rodents from nesting under your log cabin

Entrances to your log cabin will only be a step or two, which can be important if occupants have difficulty climbing stairs.

Disadvantages of Concrete Slab

Limited access to any systems installed under floors such as plumbing or electrical

Poor construction could lead to uneven flooring, drainage problems and moisture penetrating through cracks

Unpredictable performance in areas of prolonged frost

Pier Foundation

A pier foundation can consist of concrete cylindrical columns (piers) placed in the ground to support the load of a log cabin while elevating it off the ground.

Advantages of Pier Foundations

Allows access to electrical and plumbing systems

Less expensive than crawl space

Suitable for sloped lots

Allows for thorough termite inspection

Disadvantages of Pier Foundations

Without proper ventilation, moisture can build up leading to mold and rotting in wooden floors.

Interior flooring can be squeaky and prone to vibration

Rodents have easier access to your log cabin

Shenandoah Model on Pier Foundation

Crawl Spaces

Similar to pier foundations but crawl spaces have a perimeter wall. Crawl spaces should be at least three to four feet.

Advantages of Crawl Spaces

Can accommodate HVAC and plumbing systems making them accessible for maintenance

The perimeter wall can add curb appeal and be constructed out of material such as stone or brick.

Disadvantages of Crawl Spaces

Potential problems with moisture are not as noticeable.

Poorly installed or unsealed ducts can lead to unwanted materials (dust, moisture) circulating through your ventilation

Basement

Think of a basement as a combination of a slab foundation and crawl space. Basements are usually built on a concrete slab but are dug to at least eight feet deep.

Advantages of Basements

Provide additional storage space

Can be finished for extra living space without increasing log cabin’s footprint

Most expensive foundation to build due to excavation, material and labor costs

Tend to be damp

Not an option in areas with high water tables or unsettled soil

Cave-like if without day light

The strength and stability of your log cabin rely on a firm foundation. Geography, climate and personal preference should guide your decision. Talk with a professional in your area to ensure that you are making the right choice as well as abiding by local code requirements.